MONTEREY, Calif. (BRAIN) — The Brompton World Championships are coming to Sea Otter, and it's the first time in the event will be held on the West Coast. The folding bike races, which have been held for 10 years in several countries worldwide, typically draw more than 100 "Bromptoneers."
The race features a Le Mans-style start and requires participants to quickly unfold their Brompton folding bike before leaving the start line, will be held on Friday, April 15, at 5 p.m. Racers will ride five laps totaling 10 miles.
Racers are also required to dress in their finest cycling attire, which might include slacks, a tie and sport coats for the men and pantsuits and dresses for the ladies. No Lycra is allowed unless it's covered completely.
"The dress code is a nod to the history of Brompton as a commuting bike, a tongue-in-cheek approach," said Nate Prescott, marketing coordinator for Brompton USA. "There were some unbelievable outfits last year in Richmond. One woman rode in a big hoop skirt and bonnet. It's super fun to watch."
Categories including fastest male and female, fastest veteran, fastest team and best dressed will be awarded prizes, with the top man and woman winning a flight to England this summer to participate in the Brompton World Championship Finals.
"Most people come out for the festivity, but some people really make it competitive. The bikes can move pretty quickly, and showing their maneuverability is another reason we came up with the event," Prescott said.
Brompton will also have its collection of folding bikes, along with its new luggage and bag line, on display at Sea Otter in Booth 750.
